John Ashdown

Belgium’s long‑heralded golden generation fades further after a quarter-final defeat to Spain highlighted injuries, errors and uncertainty around Thibaut Courtois’s international future. A depleted Belgium side, already missing Youri Tielemans, saw replacement goalkeeper Senne Lammens concede the decisive goal after Courtois departed injured. Spain advance to face France in the semifinals, while Belgium confront a rebuilding phase. The piece also notes lighter football-related anecdotes, including a new sea snail named after Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha.